Thursday, 07 August 2008 08:51 pm

WARD'S FALLS TRAIL

Uses: Hiking, Biking

Time:  1.5 hrs

Length: 7 km (return)

Difficulty: 2

Location: About 7 km west of Parrsboro along Hwy 209 near the village of Diligent River.  Turn right onto a small dirt road, which is adjacent to a small bridge.  There should be a sign at the end of the road.  The dirt road is only about 250m to the start of the trail.

Description:  This is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in this part of the province.  It is possible to take a mountain bike back this trail as it is very well maintained but hiking is the suggested method of transport as there are about 10 bridges to cross zigzagging back and forth across the stream.  Although the trail is wide, there is not much room for bikers to be passing hikers.

Besides the beauty of this trail must be taken in slowly.  The trial is an easy, flat traverse along a valley floor.  It follows a crystal clear mountain stream right back to the falls.  The sight at the end of the trail will take your breath away.  A magnificent waterfall emerges from a dark cave and huge granite cliffs loom above this spectacle.  It is possible to cross the stream at the base of the cliff and climb up a ladder to the top of the falls.  You can then explore the cave, which extends into the cliff about 25m (carved out by the stream action) In spring you'll need rubber boots to explore into the depths of the cave.

The trail is well marked and easy to follow.  There are a few rest spots and even some picnic tables near the start of the trail.  There is a marker indicating the halfway point of the trail back to the falls and pit toilets are located near the falls as well.

Rating: 5

Disclaimer: Sea Scotia Vacation Rentals in no way endorses the use of this trail.  Please do so at you own risk.  Be aware that in some places you may be crossing private property and you are required to obtain permission from the registered owner before doing so.  To determine the registered owner of the land contact the Nova Scotia Registry of Deeds office.